Massage during pregnancy | mombabykids.com

    During pregnancy, the physical changes a mother-to-be goes through can sometimes be uncomfortable. Therefore, a massage during pregnancy can be a real source of relief. What precautions should you take? Are there any contraindications? 

    Prenatal massage can relieve many pregnancy-related ailments. The lower back and neck, often painful with the baby's development (back pain), can be relieved. All joint pain, as well as heavy legs (particularly due to fluid retention), can also be relieved thanks to the draining effect of massage. Blood circulation can also be stimulated by massaging a pregnant woman.

    Of course, massages for pregnant women are not a substitute for medical treatment. Their positive effects are, above all, a source of well-being and relaxation.

    Prenatal massage has many benefits for pregnant women, and there are very few contraindications. Massage during pregnancy is not, in itself, discouraged. In the case where the expectant mother is not in a high-risk pregnancy, there is no specific prohibition. On the other hand, in the case of hypertension , blood loss, open wounds or gestational diabetes for example, do not hesitate to contact the gynecologist or midwife beforehand. The doctor's advice will guide the expectant mother on the recommended and not recommended massages.

    Of course, it is important to pay attention to the belly of the future mother, especially at certain times of pregnancy: During the first trimester of pregnancy , manipulations on the belly should be restricted, because there may be a risk of miscarriage , but this is very rare! Indeed, the fetus is not yet completely stabilized in the cervix . At the same time, at the very end of pregnancy, manipulations on the belly should be avoided, especially if there is a risk of premature delivery .

    At the beginning or end of pregnancy, the massage will focus on the shoulders, back, or legs, which will provide true relaxation. The second trimester is therefore the ideal time to receive a massage while pregnant.

    In short, a good massage, whether pregnant or not, is one that will release pressure points, induce physical and mental relaxation, and improve your well-being. During pregnancy, forget about "muscular" massages, such as Thai or Swedish massages, as well as "hot stone" massages. Conversely, we favor all relaxing massages, all gentleness and fluidity, such as shiatsu massage or Californian massage.

    In the event that a pregnant woman would like to be massaged, there are several ways to do so: with her partner, by yourself by performing a self-massage, or in the hands of professionals within a dedicated institute, via an appointment. This last option is the best and safest because it allows you not to be manipulated in any way. If there are no specific diplomas in prenatal massage, some masseurs and masseuses have a specialization that allows them to best receive expectant mothers. When you make an appointment, specify that you are pregnant , this will allow the institute to assign you a masseuse trained in massaging expectant mothers.

    Don't hesitate to inquire beforehand at different locations. A quick look at Google reviews will also allow you to learn more about the reputation of the institute, spa, or massage parlor.

    If you want to give a pregnant woman a massage, are there any preferred positions? How should she position herself? The midwife reassures: "The best position for a pregnant woman is simply wherever she feels most comfortable . There are, however, positions that are very likely not to be comfortable. We are thinking in particular of lying on the left side after the second trimester of pregnancy . Indeed, the vena cava can cause pain in this position. Lying on the stomach, it all depends on the mother-to-be, but it is not necessarily the best position."

    The most recommended position is lying on your back, with the head raised using a cushion to relieve the neck. There are also special chairs available to prevent pregnant women from feeling the weight of their stomach during the massage.

    The manipulations must of course be carried out with the utmost gentleness. This type of gentle massage consists of friction and pressure.

    When you think of massage, you also think of massage oil! Which products should you choose and which should you avoid? It's recommended to avoid essential oils, "generally not recommended during pregnancy, as they can cause reactions if the dosage is incorrect. For a massage, choose vegetable oils, which are ideal for soothing tension (lavender, rose, sweet almond, bergamot, coconut oil, etc.). Choose organic oils, without preservatives or perfumes."

    In any case, it's important to remember that masseurs and masseuses are not pregnancy specialists: if you have the slightest doubt, or if a technique you find uncomfortable or uncomfortable, ask them to stop. And in any case, seek advice from your midwife or doctor.